The Loire à vélo trail in Orleans
Loire à Vélo is a vast cycle route stretching 900 kilometres that is unique in France. Developed in both directions, it connects Cuffy (near Nevers) with Saint-Brevin-les-Pins (across from Saint-Nazaire).
The path crosses through the Centre-Val de Loire and Pays de la Loire regions. It hugs France’s longest river, the Loire, which has carved out a magnificent valley, a treasure trove of fantastic sights and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Loire à Vélo is the western section of Eurovélo 6, a long-distance cycle route that crosses Europe.
Orleans is a key stop along the Loire à Vélo path thanks to its numerous greenways bordering the Loire exclusively reserved for non-motorised vehicles.
The gateway to the prestigious Loire Valley and the one-time capital of medieval France, Orleans is an essential destination along the Loire à Vélo path.
Whether you’re an experienced or novice cycle tourist, with family or friends here to enjoy a cycling weekend, several routes are available both to and from Orleans and one of the towns or villages in the Métropole bordering the Loire such as Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Mesmin, Combleux or Saint-Denis-en-Val.
Find all the Loire à Vélo circuits in Orleans.
Map of how to get to the Loire à Vélo trails at the Orleans Métropole Tourist Office.
Your route of the Loire à Vélo
Create your own Loire à Vélo itinerary in the ‘My log book’ section of the Loire à Vélo website.
Travel light and with peace of mind during your holidays on the Loire à Vélo! Specialists in the transportation of luggage, bikes and people are ready to provide their professional assistance in Orleans and along the length of the cycle route.
Train + Cycling + Loire
Are you catching a train to get to the Loire à Vélo bike paths?
Nothing could be simpler with the SNCF trains specially equipped on the ‘Orleans – Nantes – Le Croisic’ inter-Loire line‘.
All through summer, take advantage of the free bike valet service in specially fitted carriages where dedicated staff take charge of loading, storing and unloading passengers’ bikes.
‘Accueil Vélo’ et ‘Loire à vélo’
As you pedal your way along the Loire à Vélo cycle route, keep an eye out for service providers bearing the ‘Accueil Vélo’ or ‘Loire à Vélo’ seal of approval generally displayed at the entrance to the business.
The logo lets cyclists know they are welcome and flags excellent services all along the route.
Orléans Val de Loire Tourisme participates in the scheme! Feel free to ask us any questions you may have!
The Scandibérique
This cycle path inaugurated in 2018 is the French section of the Eurovélo 3 connecting Trondheim in Norway with Santiago de Compostela in Spain and is also known as the ‘Pilgrims’ Bike Route’.
The Scandibérique crosses France from north to south, more than 1,700 kilometres, making it the longest bike path in the country.
And luckily for you is passes through Orleans and Montargis!
The route arrives in Loiret from the east and follows the Loing Valley. Next head south passing through Briare along the way, a connection point between the Scandibérique and the Loire à Vélo paths, in the direction of Orleans. Once you arrive in Orleans, simply follow the trail to Blois, following the Loire à Vélo cycle route all the way!
Fans of slow tourism and cycle tourism will no doubt love this cycle route open to all, a must during a weekend getaway or longer stay in Orleans whether on your own, or with your partner, family or friends.
Cycle circuits and tours around Orleans
The Orleans region is ideal for exploring by bike.
Nature sites such as Orleans Forest, the banks of the Loire or the Orleans canal offer a host of bike paths accessible to riders of all levels.
Find all the cycle circuits, paths and tours in the Orleans region.